When I decided to go snowshoeing without a guided group, I started searching for some advice online. The information I found was so overwhelming that it made me feel that it would be easier to convince myself not to go. If you feel the same, here is the ultimate checklist of things you should pack and consider when you go snowshoeing in Switzerland.
Snowshoes and poles adapted to your size
It’s not always easy to find places in Switzerland to rent out snowshoes. When we went snowshoeing to Col de Marchaindruiz, we could not find any places near the hotel or parking lot that had rental equipment. I suggest a quick Google before you go .
Another thing to consider is to rent Poles. Walking with poles not only helps to exercise up to 90% of your muscles, but it is also way more convenient to climb up or go down hill with them.
High-top hiking shoes
You can fit pretty much all type of shoes, but it is definitely more comfortable to wear high-tops to avoid any snow to get into your boots
Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants
I wish I had a proper snowshoeing outfit that is wind and waterproof. The wind was so strong at the top of the mountain! I will put it on my shopping list for the future.
Gloves
One pair will be enough for an adult, but If you go with a kid, take 2 especially for them because they can not resist playing in the snow.
Layers, more layers and a change of clothes
Have you heard of the onion layering system? That’s the best technique! I was cold at the beginning when snowshoeing in the shade of the trees. By the time I got to the viewpoint I was warm from climbing uphill and higher altitude, so it was nice to take one layer off my shoulders.
And it feels even better when you change clothes (and shoes!) before you sit in the car.
Sunglasses
On a windy day, be sure to wear ski sunglasses because the wind can blow off your regular ones. Otherwise regular sunglasses would work just fine
Sunscreen and lip protection
I was grateful I had my spf 50 because “clean fresh snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation. This means that you can be exposed to almost a double dose of UV – directly from the sun and bouncing off snow-covered surfaces”. Also, higher altitude intensifies UV radiation because of the thinning atmosphere.
Chapstick is my personal must-have that I keep in my arm pocket (you know that pocket that you keep your ski passes with?)
Hat and a headband
I took both (for the same reason that you layer up ) – once you feel hot in a hat, change it to a headband. I would not recommend taking it off immediately – even on a sunny day it can be windy.
Water and/or tea
Make sure you take in sufficient quantities of liquid – at higher altitude we become more dehydrated!
Picnic sandwich and a trash bag
I think it is self-explanatory that after a long walk to your destination, you would love to praise yourself with a little picnic or just a sandwich and some warm tea.
Charged mobile phone
Make sure your phone is fully charged before your hike. Poor mobile coverage drains your battery very fast, not mentioning all the pictures you would be taking in nature. Speaking of which, the following tip just came to my mind.
Toilet paper
When nature is calling, you have to do what you have to do, right?
Pocket pharmacy
Higher altitude, scratched fingers… it is better to go prepared.
Check the map
Check maps on the go or better download a free offline map app like Swisstopo and use it when in doubt
Find out about the weather
I usually check on meteoswiss and i find it quite accurate
Check the risk of avalanche
I went to the elevation up to 1500m but if you plan to go to the high altitude, make sure to check the risk of avalanche on different sites, including that of the Institute for the study of snow and avalanches SLF
Remember the emergency number
If you dial 144, you will be connected with Switzerland’s emergency medical services
